... and I honestly get frustrated at my own abilities to endure such obstacles. That is usually the moment when I have reluctantly learned to hope for help and then simply ask for it. Somehow... somehow... it always seems to present itself in one form or another. For that, I am truly grateful because as hard as I try, I could not do this alone.

... name came from a combination of his surname and the town name. His late wife added the Mercantile to the title as she thought it made it sound older. His previous professions included photography, make up artistry and hairdressing. which were 3 out of the 7 degrees he held (degrees???!!!???). He was in his late 80's and full of life. As charming as he was, we couldn't shut him up, bless him! As we tried to edge our way out of ...

... I was SO happy. The journey back down, again with Joyce was clunky, but thankfully quicker and the feeling of immediate death soon subsided!!! I felt happy to be back on the ground! We then decided to head off back onto route 66 to continue our adventure. Getting out of St Louis was challenging! There were roadworks in the way and it took a while to find our way! Along the route there were what felt like thousands of signs telling drivers to "Vote ...

... suitcase to leave but was politely told that it had to be the bra you were wearing and had to be removed in the bar. That was too much for Paulne. I said I would be happy to sign and leave my boxers but the offer was declined. This was our best experience so far, the real experience of 'The Mother Road'.

We eventually arrived in Springfield around 8.00pm after eleven hours on the road (including stops). A quick steak and ribs at the Texas Roadhouse then off to bed. ...